It is unusual that I am this excited about a book. I have been waiting for this one in my heart for perhaps more than 10 years.
Was it worth the wait? What do you think.
What: "Japanese Quilting Piece by Piece"
By: Yoko Saito (my favorite!)
ISBN: 978-1-59668-858-2 published by Interweave press.
Juicy Details: This book consists of 29 projects. Methods used are mostly hand piecing and hand applique although you could at times find a machine handy for some of the bag construction.
I have not seen this book published in Japanese, rather it seems like a collection of 'greatest hits' from some of her Japanese publications. I like the selection that was chosen.
Many are bags, some are small wall quilts. There is also an apron, and some smaller items like sewing kits and thread holders.
On the back cover there is mention that she has an exhibit called the Yoko Saito Quilt Exhibition at the Matsuya department store in Ginza. AAAhhh!!! How did I not visit this when I was in Tokyo recently!!! This is on my short list for next time.
It would take a long time to start at the beginning of this book and make all the projects in it. I am thinking a couple of the bags would be a good place to start.
Fold out patterns are monster huge. Some of the designs need to be enlarged by 200%.
How to get it: I just ordered it online
Ok, end of my book report. I'll leave you with this: It's Yoko Saito, it's in English, it's beautiful, inspirational, and your collection of quilt books probably won't be complete without it.
In other news:
I picked up some vintage Libbey Frosted Gold Leaf Glasses on Etsy: cheap thrill, makes you feel either like you're in the Mad Men TV show, or that you're a kid again if you're old like me.
I've also had enough of my ear buds getting tangled up. If I can muster the energy, I may knit some eye cord around them as show on Wonderfully Awkward.
Thinking of knitting some supertiny vampire bat toys. Gosh only a couple more days before Halloween.
Blocking a knit dress for my tiny-niece. Photos of it as soon as it's dry! You'll have to let me know if it came out as cute as the one made by Posey Gets Cozy.
Hi Marisa, yup, mine arrived a few days ago! I have a collection of Yoko Saito books - and it's all your fault! I don't know when I am going to find time to actualy make something from the book - not this side of Christmas, but I will, one day; meanwhile, as you say, just to gaze at the pages is a feast in itself! Enjoy, i know I will! Lx
ReplyDeleteHello Marisa, That book is wonderful! I have been enjoying my copy as well. It's so nice to be able to read the directions for a change (in stead of only looking at the pictures). It helps to give some possible insight to use for projects in some of her other books. I also especially like the short passage were it discusses her philosophy of making things intentionally irregular.
ReplyDeleteThis book is just the English version of one of her books in Japanese. In fact, you reviewed here http://quiltotaku.blogspot.com/2011/08/new-classes-modern-house-quilt-blocks.html It was your Book Review #11 - the book that has the red chair on the cover. The projects are identical. They're even numbered / presented in the same order.
It's always a pleasure to read your blog. Happy Stitching and Best Wishes, Jay
Hi Marisa, I just discovered your nice blog and i can tell you that I'm a french fan of Yoko Saito : I think I have all her books minus that last one you show us but.....it will be in my next purchases :)
ReplyDeleteActually, I am doing her flower Bouquet quilt and perhaps would you be happy to see my progress on this album:
https://picasaweb.google.com/Isadarena/FloralBouquetQuilt
At present, I'm doing the block nine and it is always a great pleasure to do it...
I wish you a lovely Sunday,
Isa
Hi Marisa, I came across your blog while I was surfing about Yoko Saito's quilts. I am a new convert from knitting/crocheting to quilting...
ReplyDeleteFYI, I know of another recently (fresh out of the press!) published Saito-san's quilting book in English, the Scandinavian Quilts - Mote Med Sverige.
You can find more info here - www.willowlanequiltingcompany.com
I just purchased this book and have 2 projects going. I thought I share this info to you :). Cheers!
Very nice quilting ,,You have done very good stitching over the quilt..design is superb..
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